Spontaneous abortion
Chapter 15:Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
ICD-10 O03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous abortion.
Spontaneous abortion, commonly referred to as miscarriage, is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. It is a prevalent occurrence, with estimates suggesting that 10-20% of known pregnancies end in spontaneous abortion. The condition can occur at various stages, including early (before 12 weeks) and late (between 12 and 20 weeks) miscarriages. Factors contributing to spontaneous abortion include chromosomal abnormalities, maternal health issues (such as uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid disorders), anatomical abnormalities of the uterus, and lifestyle factors (like smoking or substance abuse). Cervical incompetence, where the cervix dilates prematurely, can also lead to late miscarriages. Emotional support is crucial for patients experiencing spontaneous abortion, as it can lead to significant psychological distress. Healthcare providers should offer counseling and resources to help patients cope with the emotional aftermath of a miscarriage, ensuring a holistic approach to care.
Detailed documentation of the patient's history, gestational age, and any interventions or counseling provided.
Patients presenting with vaginal bleeding, cramping, or loss of pregnancy symptoms.
Ensure accurate coding based on the timing of the miscarriage and any related complications.
Comprehensive documentation of high-risk factors, including maternal health conditions and previous pregnancy losses.
Management of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss or those with known cervical incompetence.
Focus on the management plan and any interventions aimed at preventing future losses.
Used when managing a patient who has experienced a spontaneous abortion.
Document all aspects of care, including counseling and follow-up.
Obstetricians should ensure comprehensive care is documented.
Complete spontaneous abortion occurs when all pregnancy tissue is expelled from the uterus, while incomplete spontaneous abortion means that some tissue remains, which may require further medical intervention.
